New MOU Brings Special Olympics Ireland and Table Tennis Ireland Together
Special Olympics Ireland and Table Tennis Ireland have officially signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that will see both organisations work together to foster greater inclusion in the sport of table tennis.
The MOU marks a shared commitment to recognising and championing the abilities of athletes with intellectual disabilities, ensuring table tennis is a sport where everyone is welcomed, valued, and given the opportunity to thrive. The agreement sets the stage for a collaborative journey built on respect, equality, and the transformative power of sport.
The three main aims and actions outlined in the MOU include:
- Special Olympics Ireland and Table Tennis Ireland have signed a three-year Memorandum of Understanding to pilot an Inclusive Club Model, creating greater opportunities for people with an intellectual disability to train, compete, and become active members of TTI-affiliated clubs.
- The partnership will see both organisations collaborate on coaching, education, and event delivery — sharing expertise in supporting athletes with an intellectual disability, promoting inclusion and equality, and growing participation among athletes, coaches, and volunteers nationwide. The MOU also ensures that athletes with an intellectual disability are consulted and involved in the development of the model for inclusive clubs, their training, and competitions.
- Both organisations reaffirm their commitment to the highest safeguarding standards, athlete representation within clubs, and the long-term development of a national blueprint for inclusive sport in Ireland.
The signing was attended by Karen Coventry, CEO of Special Olympics Ireland, and David McNally, CEO of Table Tennis Ireland. Also present were Paddy Vaughan, a distinguished Paralympics athlete set to qualify for the 2028 Games, and Fiodhna O’Leary, a Table Tennis medalist from the 2018 Abu Dabi Special Olympics World Games, representing the spirit and importance of inclusive sporting environments.
Karen Coventry, CEO of Special Olympics Ireland, said:
“This partnership is about more than promises—it’s about belonging, connection, and the joy of seeing every athlete valued for their abilities. Athletes will have the opportunity to play table tennis in their local clubs, right in the heart of their own communities—building friendships, confidence, and skills that last a lifetime. Together with Table Tennis Ireland, we’re creating a future where every athlete can find their place in the game, play in their community, and thrive through the power of sport.”
David McNally, CEO of Table Tennis Ireland, added:
"Table tennis is already a vibrant part of the Special Olympics community in Ireland, with 13 affiliated clubs offering the sport to athletes across the country. These clubs serve as important active community hubs, that foster connection, and personal growth. The popularity of table tennis has grown in recent years and with this new MOU in place, will continue to go from strength to strength."
Together, Special Olympics Ireland and Table Tennis Ireland are rallying together to ensure all voices are heard, this MOU is not just a document—it is a promise to build a sporting environment where every athlete, regardless of ability, has a place at the table.
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